Scientific Research Red Light Therapy

1) Skin Improvement / Anti-Aging

1. Shurrab K, et al. Low-level laser therapy for skin rejuvenation: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38817003/

• Population: Aggregated clinical trials on skin elasticity, wrinkles, melasma.
• Intervention: Various LLLT/LED protocols (red & NIR).
• Main finding: LLLT shows improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle reduction; suggested as safe and useful adjunct.
• Type: Systematic review (2024).
• Strength/limitation: Recent meta-analysis; still limited by inconsistent dosing and outcome measures between trials.

2. Couturaud V, Le Fur M, Pelletier M, Granotier F. Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation. 2023.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372014314_Reverse_skin_aging_signs_by_red_light_photobiomodulation

• Population: 20 healthy Caucasian women, mixed to oily skin, aged (not specified exactly) in facial-rejuvenation context.
• Intervention: LED mask (wavelength ~630 ±10 nm, power ~15.6 J/cm²) used 2 sessions/week for 3 months (12 min per session) on full facial area.
• Main Findings:
  • ~16.7% decrease in facial sagging (oval of face)
  • ~31.3% increase in dermal density
  • ~28.1% decrease in pore diameter
  • ~62.6% decrease in sebum amount
  • Effects persisted 14–28 days after stopping use.
• Study type: Clinical interventional trial (single-arm, not clearly randomized vs control).
• Limitation: Small sample size (n=20); no placebo/sham control group; women only.

3. Mota LR, et al. Photobiomodulation reduces periocular wrinkle volume by 30%: a randomized controlled trial (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36780572/

• Population: 137 women aged 40-65, skin phototypes II-IV, Glogau photoaging scale II-IV.
• Intervention: Ten sessions over 4 weeks of red (660 nm) and amber (590 nm) LED photobiomodulation (3.8 J/cm²) applied one side of face each wavelength (split-face).
• Main Findings:
  • ~31.6% wrinkle reduction with red light
  • ~29.9% wrinkle reduction with amber light
  • Hydration & viscoelasticity did not significantly improve.
• Study Type: Randomized, split-face, controlled clinical trial.
• Limitations: Focus on periocular region only; other parameters unchanged; short follow up.

4. Jagdeo J, et al. Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6099480/

• Population: Multiple clinical trials (photoaging, acne, wound healing).
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) and NIR (830–880 nm) across studies.
• Main finding: RCTs show:
  • improved wrinkles
  • increased elasticity
  • collagen upregulation
  • up to 26–36% wrinkle reduction in some trials
• Type: Systematic review.
• Limitation: Heterogeneity of dosimetry, wavelengths, devices.

5. Wunsch A & Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment… Photomed Laser Surg. 2014.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/

• Population: Adults receiving full-face/large-area PPE.
• Intervention: Polychromatic red/NIR LED sessions (multiple weeks).
• Main finding:
  • Significant improvements in patient satisfaction
  • Reduction in fine lines
  • Increased intradermal collagen density
• Limitation: Device specific; standardized dosing needed.

6. Avci P, et al. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Lasers Surg Med. 2013.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126803/

• Population: Review of preclinical and clinical data.
• Intervention: LLLT/PBM at red (600–700 nm) and NIR (760–1100 nm).
• Main finding: Mechanistic evidence showing:
  • ↑ ATP production
  • ↑ collagen synthesis
  • ↑ fibroblast proliferation
  supporting clinical benefits.
• Type: Narrative/systematic review.

2) Faster Recovery, Muscle Repair, & Sports Performance

1. Luo WT, et al. Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Muscular Performance and Recovery: Systematic Review & Meta-analysis. Front Physiol. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9460079/

• Population: 24 clinical trials (athletes/active adults).
• Intervention: LLLT/PBM applied pre- or post-exercise (various wavelengths 630–904 nm).
• Main finding: Pre-exercise PBM improved short-term muscle strength and reduced markers of muscle damage (CK), soreness.
• Type: Meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Good number of trials; variability in dose & timing is a limitation.

2. Tomazoni SS, et al. Infrared Low-Level Laser Therapy (PBM) applied before running test. Lasers Med Sci. 2019.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6885272/

• Population: Healthy active adults.
• Intervention: IR LLLT applied before progressive running test (808–830 nm parameters).
• Main finding: Improved performance metrics and reduced fatigue indicators versus placebo.
• Type: Randomized clinical trial.
• Strength/limitation: Well-controlled RCT; single-session effects — longer-term training studies needed.

3. Rossato M, et al. Dose-response effect of photobiomodulation on exercise performance. Lasers Surg Med. 2020.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232629/

• Population: 18 physically active men (crossover).
• Intervention: Multiple PBM doses (knee extension protocol) at 808 nm.
• Main finding: Identified effective energy windows that improved repetitions and delayed fatigue; showed clear dose response.
• Type: Randomized crossover study.
• Strength/limitation: Small but well-controlled; informs dosing strategies.

4. Lanferdini FJ, et al. Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Performance in Sports: Randomized Trials & Mechanisms. Sports Med. 2023.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10594465/

• Population: Athletes/active adults.
• Intervention: PPE pre- or post-exercise, LED/laser devices; wavelengths mostly 660–850 nm.
• Main finding: PBM enhances muscle oxygen kinetics, reduces muscle damage, and speeds recovery when dosed appropriately.
• Type: Systematic review/trial synthesis.
• Strength/limitation: Comprehensive; emphasizes the need for standardized dosing.

5. Ailioaie LM & Ailioaie C. Photobiomodulation and sports: a narrative review with an RCT example. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8706093/

• Population: Healthy males in RCT components; broader review included athletes.
• Intervention: Cluster PBM device pre-exercise on biceps.
• Main finding: Acute PBM reduced fatigue and improved time-to-failure in upper-limb testing.
• Type: RCT + narrative review.
• Strength/limitation: Single muscle group RCT — more whole-body athlete trials needed.

6. De Oliveira et al. Photobiomodulation preconditioning improves muscular performance: systematic review (2018).

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29090398/

• Population: Randomized trials (healthy subjects/athletes).
• Intervention: PBM applied pre-exercise.
• Main finding: PBM prior to exercise consistently reduced muscle fatigue and improved certain performance outcomes.
• Type: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Supports preconditioning use; heterogeneity remains.

3) More Energy / Reduced Fatigue

1. Liebert A, et al. A potential role for photobiomodulation therapy in chronic fatigue & long-COVID symptoms. 2020.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7673843/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical fatigue syndromes reviewed.
• Intervention: PBM (ed/NIR) applications systemically or transcranially.
• Main finding: PBM may increase cellular ATP and reduce subjective fatigue across small clinical series.
• Type: Narrative review.
• Strength/limitation: Mechanistic plausibility strong; clinical trial evidence still limited.

2. Xiao P, et al. Effect of light therapy on cancer-related fatigue: systematic review & meta-analysis. 2022.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34563631/

• Population: Cancer patients with fatigue (RCTs).
• Intervention: Bright-light and some phototherapy (not all red/NIR).
• Main finding: Light therapy reduces cancer-related fatigue; many studies use bright visible light.
• Type: Meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Relevant for “light & fatigue,” less direct PPE focus.

3. Laakso EL, et al. A holistic perspective on how photobiomodulation may treat fatigue. Front Neurol. 2023.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10216148/

• Population: Mechanistic & clinical evidence across fatigue disorders.
• Intervention: tPBM and peripheral PBM.
• Main finding: PBM modulates neuroimmune axes, mitochondrial function, and gut–brain pathways relevant to fatigue.
• Type: Review.
• Strength/limitation: Mechanistic depth; clinical RCTs emerging.

4. Rossato M et al. Dose-response effect of PPE on fatigue during repeated knee extensions (2020)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232629/

• Population: Healthy adult males.
• Intervention: PBM at different energy doses applied to quadriceps pre-exercise.
• Main Findings:
  • Reduced muscle fatigue
  • Improved peak torque
  • Delayed fatigue onset
• Study Type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial.
• Limitations: Small sample size; short-term outcomes; healthy participants only.

5. de Oliveira Aleixo-Junior I, et al. Triple-blinded randomized placebo-controlled pilot: PBMT-sMF decreases fatigue index. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8606121/

• Population: Healthy volunteers in resistance exercise.
• Intervention: PPE + static magnetic field vs sham.
• Main finding: Decreased fatigue index; lower perceived exertion.
• Type: Triple-blinded randomized controlled pilot.
• Strength/limitation: Pilot size; but high quality blinding.

6. Lawrence J, et al. Low-Level Laser Therapy for acute tissue injury and exercise recovery. 2024 review.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11503318/

• Population: Clinical and sports studies pooled.
• Intervention: LLLT before/after exercise (red/NIR).
• Main finding: Evidence supports reduced perceived fatigue and faster recovery when PBM is applied correctly.
• Type: Systematic review (2024).
• Strength/limitation: Up to date; dosing heterogeneity remains.

4) Pain Relief (Muscle & Joint Pain)

1. González-Muñoz A, et al. Efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in the treatment of pain and inflammation: Systematic review (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10094541/

• Population: Acute/chronic musculoskeletal pain trials.
• Intervention: PPE (red/NIR) across trials, local application.
• Main finding: PBM demonstrates beneficial effects for pain relief and reduced inflammation in multiple RCTs and clinical studies.
• Type: Systematic review.
• Strength/limitation: RCT evidence present but varying quality and dosage.

2. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIP Adv. 2017.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical data.
• Intervention: PBM at red/NIR wavelengths.
• Main finding: Mechanistic evidence:
  • ↓ pro-inflammatory cytokines
  • ↑ M2 macrophage markers
  • ↓ oxidative stress
  showing PBM reduces pain & inflammation.
• Type: Mechanistic review.
• Strength/limitation: Strong mechanistic grounding; standardized clinical protocols still developing.

3. Tomazoni SS, et al. IR LLLT before exercise reduces post-exercise soreness and markers. Lasers Med Sci. 2019.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6885272/

• Population: Healthy male volunteers performing high-intensity exercise.
• Intervention: Infrared low-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied to muscles before exercise.
• Main Findings:
  • Significantly reduced post-exercise muscle soreness
  • Reduced biochemical markers of muscle damage (CK levels, oxidative stress)
• Study Type: Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
• Limitations: Short-term follow-up; limited to acute effects; small sample size; only healthy athletic males.

4. Tsou YA, et al. Effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for delayed-onset muscle soreness: systematic review & meta-analysis (2025)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12286287/

• Population: Trials of DOMS in healthy adults.
• Intervention: PPE before/after exercise.

4) Pain Relief (Muscle & Joint Pain)

1. González-Muñoz A, et al. Efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in the treatment of pain and inflammation: Systematic review (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10094541/

• Population: Acute/chronic musculoskeletal pain trials.
• Intervention: PPE (red/NIR) across trials, local application.
• Main finding: PBM demonstrates beneficial effects for pain relief and reduced inflammation in multiple RCTs and clinical studies.
• Type: Systematic review.
• Strength/limitation: RCT evidence present but varying quality and dosage.

2. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIP Adv. 2017.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical data.
• Intervention: PBM at red/NIR wavelengths.
• Main finding: Mechanistic evidence:
  • ↓ pro-inflammatory cytokines
  • ↑ M2 macrophage markers
  • ↓ oxidative stress
  showing PBM reduces pain & inflammation.
• Type: Mechanistic review.
• Strength/limitation: Strong mechanistic grounding; standardized clinical protocols still developing.

3. Tomazoni SS, et al. IR LLLT before exercise reduces post-exercise soreness and markers. Lasers Med Sci. 2019.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6885272/

• Population: Healthy male volunteers performing high-intensity exercise.
• Intervention: Infrared low-level laser therapy (LLLT) applied to muscles before exercise.
• Main Findings:
  • Significantly reduced post-exercise muscle soreness
  • Reduced biochemical markers of muscle damage (CK levels, oxidative stress)
• Study Type: Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
• Limitations: Short-term follow-up; limited to acute effects; small sample size; only healthy athletic males.

4. Tsou YA, et al. Effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for delayed-onset muscle soreness: systematic review & meta-analysis (2025)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12286287/

• Population: Trials of DOMS in healthy adults.
• Intervention: PPE before/after exercise.
• Main finding: PBM reduced DOMS intensity at specific post-exercise time points.
• Type: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Good trial numbers; outcome timing matters.

5. Zecha FJ, et al. LLLT/PBM in oral mucositis & tissue injury (2016 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4846477/

• Population: Cancer patients/medical treatment side effects.
• Intervention: LLLT to oral tissues.
• Main finding: Strong RCT evidence:
  • reducing pain
  • improving healing
  in oral mucositis — a model for PBM analgesic effect.
• Type: Systematic review with clinical guideline implications.
• Strength/limitation: High-quality clinical evidence in a medical context.

6. González-Muñoz A, et al. PBM as adjunctive therapy for chronic musculoskeletal pain (2023)

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/8/4161

• Population: Chronic knee OA, tendinopathy, low back pain.
• Intervention: PPE (local red/NIR) added to physiotherapy/standard care.
• Main finding: PBM often provided additional pain relief and functional improvements compared with standard care alone.
• Type: Systematic review & trial summaries.
• Strength/limitation: Encouraging; larger multicenter RCTs needed.

5) Neurological Benefits (Focus, Memory, Cognition)

1. Naeser MA, et al. Improved cognitive function after transcranial LED treatments in chronic TBI. Photomed Laser Surg. 2011 / 2016.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3104287

• Population: Chronic TBI + cognitive deficits.
• Intervention: Transcranial red/NIR LED (633–870 nm), multiple sessions.
• Main finding:
  • Improved attention
  • Improved memory
  • Improved executive function
• Type: Pilot clinical reports.
• Strength/limitation: Preliminary but consistent signals; controlled trials needed.

2. Qu X, et al. Repeated transcranial photobiomodulation improves working memory in older adults. 2022.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9514540/

• Population: Healthy older adults.
• Intervention: Repeated NIR tPBM sessions (7 days).
• Main finding: Working memory improved post-treatment, lasting several weeks.
• Type: Randomized controlled human study.
• Strength/limitation: Promising sustained effects; modest sample sizes.

3. de Oliveira BH, et al. tPBM increases cognitive function & BDNF in adults with MCI (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39423445/

• Population: Adults with mild cognitive impairment.
• Intervention: tPBM vs sham.
• Main finding: Increased cognitive function metrics and circulating BDNF.
• Type: RCT.
• Strength/limitation: Strong design; needs long-term follow-up.

4. Urquhart EL, et al. Transcranial PBM-induced changes in EEG and cognition (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7587286/

• Population: Healthy adults.
• Intervention: Single-session NIR tPBM.
• Main finding:
  • EEG spectral power changes (delta & theta ↑)
  • Short-term cognitive improvements
• Type: Controlled experimental study.
• Strength/limitation: Strong neurophysiology; small cohorts.

5. Pan W, et al. Advances in photobiomodulation for cognitive impairment (2023 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9945713/

• Population: Preclinical models & human trials (dementia, TBI, stroke).
• Intervention: tPBM/red-NIR.
• Main finding: Neuromodulatory effects, improved perfusion, mitochondrial support, cognitive gains.
• Type: Review.
• Strength/limitation: Comprehensive; clinical heterogeneity.

6. Nizamutdinov D, et al. Transcranial Near-Infrared (tNIR) light in dementia: safety & cognitive effects. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8219492/

• Population: Dementia patients.
• Intervention: Home-based repeated tNIR sessions.
• Main finding:
  • Safety demonstrated
  • Some cognitive improvements
  • Better sleep/mood reported
• Type: Case series/trial protocol.
• Strength/limitation: Encouraging real-world use; needs controlled RCTs.

6) Hormonal Balance

1. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms of PBM — mitochondrial & NO release affecting endocrine cells (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Mechanistic + some human data.
• Intervention: Red/NIR PBM.
• Main finding: PBM increases ATP & nitric oxide — mechanisms that modulate endocrine cell activity and stress response.
• Type: Mechanistic review.
• Strength/limitation: Mechanistic but not hormone-focused clinical RCTs.

2. Yosefov-Abramson et al. / Hernández-Bule 2024 review — PBM effects on reproductive tissues

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11049838/

• Population: Animal models + limited human pilot data.
• Intervention: Local NIR/reduce PPE to reproductive tissues.
• Main finding: Increased follicular viability, mitochondrial function, and perfusion in animal models.
• Type: Preclinical + pilot human summary.
• Strength/limitation: Mostly preclinical; few human endocrine RCTs.

3. Liebert A et al. PBM and systemic neuroimmune/endocrine modulation (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7673843/

• Population: Mixed conditions & mechanistic evidence.
• Intervention: Systemic PBM (whole-body or transcranial).
• Main finding: PBM can modulate inflammatory cytokines and stress responses involving the HPA axis.
• Type: Narrative review.

4. Clinical pilot studies — thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, reproductive medicine (Hernández-Bule 2024)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11049838/

• Population: Small cohorts with autoimmune thyroid issues or fertility problems.
• Intervention: Targeted NIR/red PPE to thyroid or pelvic region.
• Main finding: Improved perfusion and some symptom relief; variable hormone changes.
• Type: Pilot clinical reports.
• Strength/limitation: Small sample sizes; inconsistent hormone results.

5. Laakso EL (2023) — PBM effects on gut–brain–endocrine axes

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10216148/

• Population: Mechanistic & small human studies.
• Intervention: tPBM + peripheral PBM.
• Main finding: PBM may modulate metabolic/hormonal signaling via mitochondria & immune pathways.
• Type: Review.

6. Hernández-Bule et al. (2024) — PBM & endocrine function review

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11049838/

• Population: Human clinical trials, small RCTs, animal models, mechanistic studies.
• Intervention: PBM applied to endocrine-related areas (thyroid, testes, brain)
• Main Findings:
  • PBM may influence cortisol, testosterone, thyroid hormones, melatonin
  • Mechanistic links via mitochondrial activation & neuroendocrine signaling
• Type: Systematic review.
• Limitations: Few large RCTs; secondary endocrine endpoints; protocol variability.

7) Better Sleep

1. Saltmarche A, et al. Significant improvements in cognition & sleep reported in dementia patients after PBM (2017)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28186867/

• Population: Mild–moderate dementia subjects.
• Intervention: Repeated PBM (transcranial/near-infrared).
• Main finding: Improved sleep patterns and reduced nighttime agitation, alongside cognitive improvements.
• Type: Case series.
• Strength/limitation: Not controlled but consistent caregiver-reported benefits.

2. Nizamutdinov D, et al. tNIR in dementia: improved sleep & mood (2021)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8219492/

• Population: Dementia patients.
• Intervention: Repeated tNIR therapy at home.
• Main finding: Improved sleep quality within ~7 days reported by caregivers.
• Type: Case series / controlled protocol.
• Strength/limitation: Real-world consistency; not blinded RCT.

3. Gaggi NL, et al. Enhancing sleep, wakefulness, and cognition with photobiomodulation (2025 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12350269/

• Population: Healthy volunteers & clinical cohorts.
• Intervention: tPBM, intranasal PBM, bright-light therapy.
• Main finding: PBM may improve daytime alertness and support nighttime sleep via circadian & mitochondrial pathways.
• Type: Review (2025).
• Strength/limitation: Mixed modalities; emerging field.

4. Urquhart EL, et al. tPBM changes EEG & cognition; sleep-related EEG changes noted (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7587286/

• Population: 20 healthy adults.
• Intervention: Single-session 830 nm tPBM.
• Main Findings:
  • Delta & theta EEG increases (linked to relaxation & sleep pressure)
  • Cognitive improvements
  • Authors note EEG resembles early sleep-cycle patterns
• Type: Experimental crossover study.
• Strength/limitation: Strong neurophysiology; sleep was secondary outcome.

5. Bragato EF et al. (2023) — LED Mask RCT protocol including sleep as outcome

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9902007/

• Population: 60 adult women aged 35–60.
• Intervention: 633 & 830 nm LED mask, 20-min sessions, 3× per week, 8 weeks.
• Main finding: Protocol only; sleep assessed via PSQI.
• Type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial protocol.
• Strength/limitation: Strong design; no results published yet.

6. Hamblin MR (2017) & Laakso EL (2023) — PBM and melatonin/circadian mechanisms

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Animal studies, cellular models, indirect human evidence.
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) & near-infrared (800–850 nm).
• Main findings:
  • ↑ cytochrome c oxidase activity
  • ↑ ATP and nitric oxide
  • Potential influence on melatonin synthesis
  • Circadian rhythm normalization in animals
• Type: Mechanistic review.
• Strength/limitation: Strong biology; limited sleep-focused human RCTs.

8) Hair Growth

1. Torres AE, et al. Photobiomodulation for the management of hair loss (2021)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33377535/

• Population: Review covering multiple RCTs in alopecia.
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) and NIR LED helmets/caps; 2–3×/week, 12–26 weeks.
• Main findings: Several RCTs show increased hair count & density.
• Type: Narrative review + summary of RCTs.
• Strength/limitation: Solid survey; heterogeneous protocols.

2. Hamblin MR. Photobiomodulation for alopecia (2019 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6737896/

• Population: Preclinical + clinical data.
• Intervention: 630–830 nm PPE across devices.
• Main finding:
  • Mitochondrial stimulation of follicles
  • Efficacy in AGA, alopecia areata, chemo-induced hair loss
• Type: Review.
• Strength/limitation: Mechanistic depth; earlier than newest RCTs.

3. Lodewijckx J, et al. HAIRLASER trial — PBM to accelerate hair regrowth after chemotherapy (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37060420/

• Population: Breast-cancer chemotherapy patients.
• Intervention: Helmet/targeted red/NIR PPE (per protocol).
• Main finding:
  • Accelerated hair regrowth
  • Improved QoL and body image
• Type: Randomized controlled trial.
• Strength/limitation: Valuable RCT in niche population; moderate sample size.

4. Wang YF, et al. Clinical trial comparing three wavelengths for hair growth (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40398915/

• Population: 68 adults (18–60 years) with hair loss.
• Intervention: PBM at:
  • 650 nm
  • 1550 nm
  • 14,000 nm
  vs control for 3 months (+ 9-month follow-up).
• Main findings:
  • PBM groups showed ↑ hair density
  • Control group showed decline
  • Reduced scalp oiliness
• Type: Controlled clinical trial.
• Strength/limitation: Head-to-head wavelengths; moderate sample.

5. Charoensuksira S, et al. Light-guiding microneedle patch + LED helmet (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39325239/

• Population: 16 AGA patients.
• Intervention: Microneedle patch + LED helmet (522 nm + 633 nm), 50 mW/cm², 40 J/cm², weekly × 24 weeks.
• Main finding: Improved hair measurements in treated area vs control.
• Type: Small randomized clinical trial (split area).
• Strength/limitation: Very small N; innovative method.

6. Yang K, et al. Hair growth promoting effects of 650 nm red light (ex vivo)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8577899/

• Population: Ex-vivo human hair follicle culture.
• Intervention: 650 nm red light exposure.
• Main findings:
  • Stimulation of follicle activity
  • Mitochondrial + growth factor signaling upregulation
• Type: Mechanistic ex-vivo study.
• Strength/limitation: Preclinical; supports clinical findings.

9) Improved Metabolism

1. Scontri CMCB, et al. Dose-response PBM reduces glycemia in T2DM (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37171054/

• Population: T2DM patients in randomized crossover double-blind sham-controlled design.
• Intervention: PPE (red/NIR) with time- and dose-response protocols.
• Main findings:
  • Reductions in blood glucose
  • HRV improvements (autonomic balance)
• Type: Randomized crossover RCT.
• Strength/limitation: Promising — needs larger trials.

2. Elnaggar RK, et al. PBMT vs RF vs control in adolescents with obesity (2020)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141112/

• Population: Adolescents with obesity.
• Intervention: 635 nm PBMT to abdominal fat vs RF & control.
• Main findings:
  • Reduced waist/hip ratio
  • Reduced subcutaneous abdominal fat thickness
• Type: RCT.
• Strength/limitation: Anthropometric endpoints only; short-term.

3. Roche GC, et al. LLLT for reducing hip/waist/abdomen circumference (2017)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27935737/

• Population: BMI 30–40 adults.
• Intervention: 635–680 nm LLLT (multiple sessions).
• Main findings:
  • Significant reductions in waist circumference
  • Significant hip/abdomen reductions
• Type: Controlled clinical trial.
• Strength/limitation: Local fat/circumference reduction validated; metabolic biomarkers not primary endpoints.

4. Magalhães FC, et al. PBM in insulin resistance & metabolic outcomes (2022 review)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36040371/

• Population: In vitro, animal, human studies.
• Intervention: PPE with variable parameters.
• Main findings:
  • Mitochondrial improvements
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Improved adipocyte & muscle metabolic signaling
• Type: Narrative/systematic review.
• Strength/limitation: Encouraging; more RCTs needed.

5. Modena DAO, et al. LED PPE on adipose tissue — split-abdomen trial (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37851070/

• Population: Obese women.
• Intervention: Red + infrared LED PBMT to abdominal regions.
• Main findings:
  • Mitochondrial stimulation in adipose cells
  • Localized reduction in adipose measures
• Type: Non-randomized split-area trial.
• Strength/limitation: Mechanistic biomarkers measured; not randomized.

6. Liu S, et al. tPBM improves metabolic parameters in diabetic mice (Nature Communications, 2023)

https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-023-05630-3

• Population: Diabetic mice.
• Intervention: Transcranial PPE.
• Main findings:
  • Improved insulin therapy effects
  • Altered microglial activity
  • Increased energy expenditure & locomotion
• Type: Preclinical animal model.
• Strength/limitation: Strong mechanistic evidence; translation to humans needed.

10) Mood Enhancement / Reduced Anxiety or Depression

1. Cassano P., et al. Transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder — pilot RCT (2018)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7864111/

• Population: Adults with MDD.
• Intervention: Near-infrared tPBM targeted to prefrontal cortex.
• Main findings:
  • Antidepressant effects observed
  • Improved mood scores vs baseline
  • Good tolerability & feasibility
• Study type: Randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot.
• Strength/limitation: Strong design but small sample size.

2. Ji Q., ​​et al. Photobiomodulation improves depression symptoms — meta-analysis (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38356614/

• Population: RCTs & controlled studies in depression.
• Intervention: Transcranial PBM and peripheral PBM.
• Main findings:
  • PBM significantly reduces depressive symptoms vs placebo
  • However, number of high-quality RCTs is still small
• Study type: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Statistically pooled benefit; heterogeneity remains.

3. Cho Y., et al. Meta-analysis: Efficacy of tPBM for depressive symptoms (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37651208/

• Population: Randomized & sham-controlled trials.
• Intervention: tPBM protocols (varied across studies).
• Main findings: Suggestive support for tPBM, but many trials underpowered.
• Study type: Meta-analysis.
• Strength/limitation: Rigorous analysis but limited by small sample RCTs.

4. Iosifescu DV, et al. ELATED-3 multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial (2022)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35950904/

• Population: MDD patients across multiple centers.
• Intervention: tPBM with defined irradiance & energy thresholds.
• Main findings:
  • Minimum dose threshold required for effect
  • Low-dose tPBM shows little/no effect
• Study type: Multicenter RCT.
• Strength/limitation: Emphasizes importance of correct dosing.

5. Guu TW, et al. Wearable tPBM for MDD — randomized double-blind sham-controlled trial (2025)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39706483/

• Population: Patients with MDD.
• Intervention: Self-administered wearable tPBM.
• Main findings:
  • Feasible & well tolerated
  • Low dosimetry insufficient for antidepressant effect
  • Improved sleep quality noted
• Study type: Randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled (2025).
• Strength/limitation: Realistic dosing insights; low dose = limited effect.

6. Coelho DRA, et al. Dose-finding RCT of tPBM — neurometabolite changes & clinical correlations (2025)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40429396/

• Population: Adults with MDD.
• Intervention: Varied tPBM doses.
• Main findings:
  • Dose-dependent neurometabolite changes (NAA, Cho, Cr)
  • Correlations with clinical improvement
• Study type: Randomized, double-blind dose-comparison trial.
• Strength/limitation: Strong mechanistic RCT; early stage data.

11) Reduction Of Inflammation (Arthritis & Autoimmune Disorders)

1. Zhang R., et al. Mechanisms & efficacy of PBM in inflammatory disease (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10531845/

• Population: Human & animal inflammatory disease studies.
• Intervention: Red/NIR PPE protocols.
• Main findings:
  • ↓ inflammatory markers
  • Improved tissue repair
  • Positive results in joint disease & autoimmune models
• Type: Systematic review (2023).
• Strength/limitation: Very thorough; protocol variability remains.

2. Hamblin MR. Anti-inflammatory effects of PBM — mechanistic review (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Cell, animal, & human studies.
• Intervention: Red/NIR wavelengths.
• Main findings:
  • ↓ oxidative stress
  • ↓ inflammatory cytokines
  • ↑ NO release
  • Mitochondrial modulation
• Type: Comprehensive mechanistic review.
• Strength/limitation: Foundational; clinical protocols still vary.

3. Oliveira S., et al. PBM for knee osteoarthritis — systematic review (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38775202/

• Population: RCTs in knee OA.
• Intervention: Laser/LED PBM.
• Main findings:
  • Pain reduction
  • Possible disability improvement
• Type: Systematic review & meta-analysis (2024).
• Strength/limitation: Pooled data but low certainty due to heterogeneity.

4. González-Muñoz A., et al. PBM for chronic pain & inflammation — systematic review (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10094541/

• Population: Chronic pain & inflammatory conditions.
• Intervention: LED/laser PBM.
• Main findings: PBM provides beneficial effects — though standardized RCTs needed.
• Type: Systematic review.
• Strength/limitation: Comprehensive; emphasizes protocol variability.

5. Stausholm MB., et al. Efficacy of LLLT in knee osteoarthritis — BMJ Open (2019)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12326686/

• Population: Placebo-controlled LLLT trials in knee OA.
• Intervention: Various LLLT dosages.
• Main findings:
  • Significant pain reduction
  • Improved function
• Type: Systematic review & meta-analysis (2019).
• Strength/limitation: Rigorous but highly variable protocols.

6. Lourinho I., et al. LLLT in adults with rheumatoid arthritis — systematic review & meta-analysis (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12326686/

• Population: Adults with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Intervention: LLLT/PBM protocols across RA trials.
• Main findings:
  • Favorable effects on inflammatory markers
  • Pain reduction
  • Some functional improvements
• Type: Systematic review & meta-analysis (2023).
• Strength/limitation: Promising but small trials + methodological variability.